French River Lighthouse, Cape Tryon Lighthouse
The Four Winds light was built on a spur of red sand-stone cliff jutting out into the gulf. On one side, across the channel, stretched the silvery sand shore of the bar; on the other, extended a long, curving beach of red cliffs, rising steeply from the pebbled coves. It was a shore that knew the magic and mystery of storm and star. — Anne’s House of Dreams, Chapter 9
There are two lighthouses situated around New London Harbour (the basis for Four Winds Harbour.)
L. M. Montgomery has not indicated in her published writings what the original for the Four Winds lighthouse may be. Captain Jim’s lighthouse bears qualities of both the French River and Cape Tryon lighthouses.
French River Lighthouse
Address: End of Cape Rd., off Route 20, French River
The French River lighthouse is located on the northwestern side of New London Harbour. It matches the description of the location of Captain Jim’s light very closely. A long bar of sand dunes lies across the channel from it. It is built on a white sand beach, but to its left, “pebbled coves” rise towards steep red cliffs out on the ocean.
It also has a house attached, so that it looks more habitable than the Cape Tryon light.
Cape Tryon Lighthouse
Address: End of Cape Tryon Rd., accessed from Cape Rd. off Rt. 20
The Cape Tryon lighthouse is a lone tower with a revolving light. Like the Four Winds lighthouse, it is built on a rocky red sandstone cliff. It lies on the outer shore of the Atlantic Ocean, rather than within the harbour.
